In a stirring display of military discipline and regimental pride, the Madras Engineer Group (MEG) & Centre, commonly referred to as the Madras Sappers, hosted a Passing Out Parade for 568 Agniveer recruits at its parade grounds in Bengaluru. This event marked the culmination of intensive training for the 5th batch of Agniveers, who are now prepared to join the ranks of the Indian Army.
The parade, set against the historically rich backdrop of the MEG’s campus, began with a ceremonial inspection conducted by senior Army officers. A Maruti Gypsy, emblematic of the Indian Army’s strong traditions, was used during the review—a nod to the resilience and operational readiness the Army demands from its personnel and equipment alike.
Dressed in ceremonial attire adorned with blue dooptas (turbans), gold and maroon jari bands, and white spats, the Agniveers demonstrated impeccable coordination in their march. The parade ground resonated with commands, synchronized footsteps, and the stirring sounds of a military band, creating an atmosphere charged with patriotism and pride.
A particularly emotional moment of the ceremony involved the presentation of the Gaurav Padak, a medal awarded to the parents of the Agniveers. This honor recognizes the crucial support families provide to their children as they embark on their journey to serve the nation. The pride etched on the faces of parents as their sons marched by, transformed from civilians into soldiers, underscored the intimate bonds of family and service.
In attendance were distinguished veterans, senior officers, and family members, all witnessing the symbolic transition of these young recruits into trained sappers. The occasion was not only a milestone for the Agniveers but also a tribute to the rich heritage of the Madras Sappers, one of the oldest and most decorated units in the Indian Army.
Established in 1780 by the British, the Madras Sappers boast a long and storied legacy. Affectionately known as “Thambi Sappers” (with “Thambi” meaning “younger brother” in Tamil), the regiment has participated in significant military operations, such as Operation Polo in 1948, which facilitated the integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union. Their regimental motto, “Sarvatra” (meaning “everywhere”), reflects their versatility and enduring commitment to service across diverse terrains and missions.
The regimental song “Vetri Vetri Ethilum Vetri Thambi” (“Victory, victory in everything, victory younger brother”) was played during the parade, capturing the spirit of unity, courage, and determination that underpins the regiment’s ethos.
The integration of Agniveers into the regiment is part of the broader Agnipath scheme launched in 2022, designed to reshape the Indian Army through short-term recruitment of young people. These Agniveers are set to serve for four years, with a select 25 percent potentially being offered permanent commissions thereafter. This initiative has injected a new wave of energy and youth into the Army, and the successful training and integration of this batch exemplify the scheme’s effective implementation at the regimental level.
As the Agniveers prepare to assume their responsibilities in service of the nation, the Passing Out Parade at MEG not only highlighted their transformation but also reinforced the Madras Sappers’ unwavering commitment to excellence, discipline, and the defense of India.
